MCA Invites Comments on Multidisciplinary Partnership (MDP) Firms to Build Indian Consulting Giants
SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth | SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
Institutions: Ministry of Corporate Affairs
The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) has issued an Office Memorandum dated 17 September 2025, inviting public comments on the establishment of Indian Multidisciplinary Partnership (MDP) firms. The move is aimed at enabling large Indian firms to compete with global consulting and audit majors by creating integrated entities that can deliver advisory, audit, tax, compliance, ESG, IT, and strategic services under one roof.
The Background Note accompanying the memorandum highlights key barriers: restrictions on advertising and branding, limitations on multidisciplinary partnerships, fragmented licensing across professions, and public procurement practices that favor global firms. It also notes India’s underrepresentation in the $240 billion global consulting and audit market, despite a strong domestic talent pool. Previous reforms, such as RBI’s cap on audit concentration and ICAI’s measures to encourage larger Indian partnerships, are acknowledged, but structural barriers remain. Stakeholders are asked to submit responses on regulatory changes, dispute resolution, safeguards, brand building, and international best practices by 30 September 2025.
This consultation is a major step in reshaping India’s professional services ecosystem. It links corporate regulation with industrial policy by seeking to reduce reliance on multinational firms, encourage brand-building for Indian players, and align with Atmanirbhar Bharat goals. The outcome could redefine the structure of India’s audit, legal, and consulting landscape.
Relevant Question for Policy Stakeholders:
How can MCA balance liberalization of multidisciplinary partnerships with safeguards that preserve professional independence, accountability, and global competitiveness for Indian firms?
Follow the full news here: https://www.mca.gov.in/bin/dms/getdocument?mds=NOo23manNRo%252F9lJ19q70AQ%253D%253D&type=open